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Description
Aquilegia Longissima, also known as Longspur Columbine, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and is found in rocky slopes, canyons, and open woodlands. The Longspur Columbine is a beautiful plant that produces bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers range in color from yellow to orange-red and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Aquilegia |
Appearance
The Longspur Columbine is a clump-forming perennial that can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant has blue-green, lobed leaves that are about 3 inches long. The flowers are bell-shaped and have long spurs that extend backward from the petals. The flowers are about 1 inch long and come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, and red. The Longspur Columbine blooms in late spring and early summer and can continue to bloom for up to 6 weeks.
Care Guide
Water
The Longspur Columbine prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Longspur Columbine in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates.
Soil
The Longspur Columbine prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight
The Longspur Columbine prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, the plant may benefit from afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
The Longspur Columbine is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Longspur Columbine is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Longspur Columbine is native to the southwestern United States and is found in rocky slopes, canyons, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Longspur Columbine?
A: Water your Longspur Columbine regularly to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause the roots to rot.
Q: What is the best soil type for the Longspur Columbine?
A: The Longspur Columbine prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Longspur Columbine?
A: The Longspur Columbine is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for with the Longspur Columbine?
A: The Longspur Columbine is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Related Plants
- Aquilegia canadensis
- Aquilegia chrysantha
- Aquilegia flabellata
- Aquilegia vulgaris
References
- “Aquilegia Longissima.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=289416.
- “Aquilegia Longissima.” PlantFiles, www.plantfiles.com/profile/8557/aquilegia-longissima.
- “Longspur Columbine.” High Country Gardens, www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/aquilegia-longissima.
